As the sun climbs higher and the days get longer, you know summer isn’t far behind. Homeowners across North Carolina are flipping on ceiling fans and crossing their fingers that the air conditioner fires up like it did last year.

But here’s the truth: comfort is only part of the equation. When it’s 95° outside, your AC’s reliability becomes everything.

That’s why we’ve put together this Ultimate AC Maintenance Checklist — perfect whether you're a seasoned homeowner or maintaining your system for the first time.

✅ 1. Inspect the Outdoor Unit

Start with the exterior. Remove any winter covers and check for:

Rust, corrosion, or bent fins

Overgrown weeds, leaves, or other debris

📏 Keep a 2-foot clearance around the unit to maintain proper airflow. If it can’t breathe, it can’t cool.

🧼 2. Clean the Condenser Unit

Turn off the power before you clean.

Then:

Use a garden hose (not a pressure washer) to gently rinse the fins

Use a fin comb if the fins are bent

Remove any gunk, clippings, or pollen buildup from the coils

A clean coil = a cool house.

🧃 3. Change the Air Filter

This one’s easy — and super important.

✔️ Check your filter every month ✔️ Replace it if it’s dirty or clogged ✔️ Use high-quality filters for better air quality

Clogged filters restrict airflow, reduce efficiency, and wear out your system faster.

🎛 4. Test the Thermostat

Make sure the brain of your system is working right.

Is the temperature reading accurate?

Does it maintain your settings?

Is it in a consistent location (not near windows or doors)?

💡 Consider upgrading to a smart thermostat — they adjust automatically and can save energy over time.

📏 5. Check Your Ductwork

Leaky or blocked ducts can waste up to 30% of your cooled air. That means higher bills and uneven temperatures.

Inspect for visible damage or disconnected sections

Seal leaks with duct mastic or metal tape

Call a pro if you suspect hidden problems

⚡ 6. Inspect Electrical Connections

Safety first: turn off power at the breaker.

Then check:

Wiring for wear or corrosion

Capacitor and contractor for damage

Tighten any loose connections

Electrical problems can quickly become dangerous and expensive if ignored.

💧 7. Clear the Condensate Drain Line

Your drain line can clog up with algae or debris — leading to:

Water leaks

Humidity issues

AC shutdowns

Flush it with a mix of bleach and water or use a wet/dry vac to keep it flowing.

👨‍🔧 8. Schedule a Professional Tune-Up

There’s no substitute for a trained technician. A professional AC inspection includes:

Checking refrigerant levels

Deep coil and blower cleaning

Testing safety and efficiency controls

Catching issues before they become emergencies

At Simmons One Hour, we do this every day — and we back it with our Breakdown-Free Guarantee.

🔁 9. Plan for the Future

If your system is 12–15 years old, it may be time to plan for an upgrade.

Newer systems:

Use less energy

Run quieter and cooler

Often include better warranties and smart features

Start budgeting now so you’re not stuck sweating and scrambling.

🏁 Final Thoughts

Your AC is one of the hardest-working appliances in your home. Treat it right with a little maintenance, and it’ll return the favor all summer long.

Need help getting started? Call Simmons One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning — we’ll make sure you’re ready before the real heat arrives.

​👉 Book Your AC Tune-Up Today